Therapeutic application of dysprosium-165-FHMA in the treatment of rheumatoid knee effusions

Radiation synovectomy utilizing a variety of radionuclides has proven to be an effective technique in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. The recent introduction of the short-lived radionuclide, Dysprosium-165 (165Dy), as a replacement for the longer-lived radiocolloids has reduced nontarget dosimetry caused by leakage of the agent from the articular cavity. A review of the methods and status of radiation synovectomy, and the application of 165Dy-ferric hydroxide macroaggregates (FHMA) as an alternative therapeutic agent is described